There are some who wouldn't love or want an old Golden Retriever named Jake with a large growth over his eye, a thin dry coat, long lanky bowed legs and funny looking feet that thumped each time he took a step. But I did. There are some who wouldn't want a dog named Jake that couldn't always make it outside in time and would have accidents in the house. But I did. There are some who wouldn't want a dog named Jake around that kept to himself and didn't interact much with you or your dogs. But I did. There are some who wouldn't notice the little endearing things a dog named Jake did like rub his head on your leg for a hug or attention. But I did. There are some who while holding the paw of a dog named Jake in their hands, and petting him for the last time, not be able to see that Jake was just as handsome, just as dignified and just as perfect as the Golden Retriever in the portrait above him. But I did. There are some who wouldn't allow an old dog named Jake to break an already broken heart. But I did.
God speed Jake until we meet you again at the Rainbow Bridge...
Thank-you for being part of our lives for 24 days.
~~Some of you asked what caused Jake to leave us so quickly. There was really no final diagnosis. One vet thought Jake may have had a small stroke and a kidney infection. Another thought it may have been Hemorrhagic gastroenteritis (HGE) because he had many of the symptoms that appeared so quickly. Whatever it was, because of Jake's age and already compromised and weakened system it was all just too much for him to overcome.
Farewell, dear Jake. You will be missed, sweet boy.
ReplyDeleteHappy that Jake was able to spend some time in your loving home, Kim. You are such a giving lady. xoxo
Went to bed last night and prayed for Jake. I just asked for God to give him peace and not to suffer. I woke up this morning talking about him with my husband. I cried myself to sleep and I woe up crying talking about him. I am so sad right now knowing that he is gone.
ReplyDeleteI will miss reading about him. You definitely have a heart of Gold. How do you do it? I never really knew Jake and I am a wreck.
TFS.
I saw your comment on facebook and came right here. I'm so sorry for you, but so glad that Jake had the benefit of your loving care for the last days of his life. Stay strong, Kim, and wait for the next sweet soul that will need your love.
ReplyDeleteI bet Jake loved being with you and Carl for the time he had.. He did!!
ReplyDeleteSome people would think it's crazy to sob uncontrollably over their coffee on a Saturday morning over a dog named Jake that they didn't even know...
ReplyDeleteBut I don't. And I am. And I'm so sorry Kim. You are a precious friend and I admire you.
Not the outcome I had hoped for (and you either I'm sure) please take comfort knowing he is at peace and someone that loved him was with him in the end. You gave him 24 good days Kim and you are an angel to them.
ReplyDeleteHe will be waiting for you at the bridge.
xoxo
So soon . So sad. Stay strong .
ReplyDeleteHe was loved by you and so he could go in peace. I'm so sorry you are sad. It doesn't take long for them to burrow into our hearts. Hugs to you
ReplyDeleteKim, sending loving thoughts and prayers your way - you are so special - how do you do it...
ReplyDeletexo
Lynn
{{{hug}}}
ReplyDeleteWoof! Woof! Just read your previous posts. So sad but we know for the 24 days Jake was happy and appreciate the LOVE n care you provided. Sending you Lots of Golden LOVE n Woofs, Sugar
ReplyDeleteMy heart goes out to you for your loss! What a sweet boy, Jake was, despite all of his maladies that nature seemed to heap on him!
ReplyDeleteWhat a lucky dog to have a loving home in his later years when he needed it so much!
He's probably romping around with my Raider, waiting at the bridge for us!
Big Hugs,
Kathy
~~~~~~Sophie Hugs to you~~~~~~<3~~~~~
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry to hear this news this morning Kim but I know in my heart that Jake's final days were spent in the most loving home a dog could wish for with you and your precious family and there is much solace in that knowledge.
ReplyDeleteMay God bless you with joy and peace this day Kim.
Tina xo
You were Jake's angel for his last days. He went with love, grace and dignity thanks to your loving heart.
ReplyDeleteGoodbye, Dear Jake. You will be missed.
Again, I have no words. Tears fall freely and my heart breaks for you Kim.
ReplyDeleteHe left knowing love and you could wish no more for any human or k-9 and feline alike.
When my own time comes, I pray that I will have that kind of unconditional love at my side as I leave this world.
Bless you Kim
Bert's My Vickie
You saw Jake for the beautiful boy he was, and he deserved the wonderful 24 days he spent with you. Again, I can't thank you enough for all you do.
ReplyDeletePeace....Jake.
you are a real sweetie kim.
ReplyDeletehugs
x
Jake felt love from you and the other pups Kim, in his last few weeks I am sure.
ReplyDeleteSending love and hugs!
xo Catherine
Dear sweet Jake, he will have been so comforted by your loving presence. So sad he had to leave you so soon.
ReplyDeleteLove to you, Kim.
xxx
I was so praying he would get another chance, but no.
ReplyDeleteKim, you have sent him off with all the love he could possibly need. I'm so sorry he left you so soon.
love,
barbara
We are so sorry for you and Jake is runnin.. painfree now!! You are an amazing woman Kim. Your hearts and thoughts are with you at this time.
ReplyDeleteLove
Diana, Jazzi and Addy
Sorry about Jake, Kim. Just glad he got to spend his last days with you and the crew. I believe he had a tough life and he's happier now at the bridge.
ReplyDelete{{{HUGS}}}
I'm just catching up today, and I'm so very sorry! Jake needed you, and you were there for him. There's never a good time to have to say good-bye. Our thoughts and prayers are with you!
ReplyDeleteO NO !!!...big hugs from me darling.......xxx.....
ReplyDeleteI thought about you and Jake all day yesterday. He was such a special boy and had such a lovely smile and a lovely spirit and I'm so sorry for your loss.
ReplyDeleteDear Kim, Another heartbreak for you but also another jewel in your crown. Another pup to run free with those already waiting for him.
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry, my friend I just don't know how to continue to do this-you are such an incredible woman and Carl must be an incredible husband too.
Sending love and hugs to you today.
Noreen & Reggie
oh sweetie. he was lucky to have you in the end, to show him such love and kindness and allow him to exit gracefully.
ReplyDeleteAw. I am so sorry.
ReplyDeleteThank you for all you did for Jake. Golden retrievers are so lucky that you have their backs. Even when their are old and ill, and their condition is grave, still you have their backs.
Thank you for that.
I have to admit I shed a tear...and I hadn't even met Jake...but feel I knew him. So sorry, but he was lucky to have had your lovely home at the end of his years.
ReplyDeleteRIP Sweet Jake.
ReplyDeleteKim, Heaven holds a special place for people like YOU!
Thank you for all you do to make their Golden years, their BEST!
xoxo
Oh I am so sorry. He was lucky to have such a wonderful loving home with you at the end of his life.
ReplyDeleteCandle lit for Jake. We'll see you at the bridge Jake, restored to your most beautiful and healthy self. We all saw THAT Jake, even though your vessel was worn out from god knows what over the years of your life. You truly deserved an island of paradise for your last 24 days. Golden Pines is just that place.
ReplyDeleteOh, this is so sad! My heart breaks for you all. Jake sounds like he was a true blessing, one that touched lives that he never even met, and is continuing to do so. Blessings to you for giving him a loving and caring home.
ReplyDeleteYou're beautiful Jake! May your eternity be calm and peaceful.
I am so sorry to hear that you had to say good bye to Jake so quickly. I'm willing to bet that Jake was very happy to have had the opportunity to spend the last 21 days of his life at Golden Pines.
ReplyDeleteThank you for inspiring me to try and do more for dogs like Jake.
Rachel
I'm very sorry to hear this. I'm glad Jake was in the best of hands for the last 24 days. Godspeed, Jake.
ReplyDeletetears streaming.
ReplyDeletewe knew, didn't we.
but we also know that he was loved more and cared for better in those short 24 days than probably his entire life.
you are a wonder kim.
i thank God for people like you, who not only talk it. they do it.
love from a saddened heart,
tammy j
Jill said it, Kim. You were Jake's angel, giving him love and dignity and holding his paw at the very end.
ReplyDeleteYour grace is unmatched. My eyes are leaking.
Gizmo's very best friend was Joe, a 7 year old golden. They ALWAYS played when they met. Maybe Jake and Gizmo are playing some chase at the Bridge. Isn't it lovely to think so?
(((Kim)))
Godspeed, Jake!
ReplyDeleteBeing with you and your clan for the 24 days was the best days of his life , he was loved unconditionally no matter what and that made a whole world of difference to Jake he knew he was loved. I am sorry he has left us , another angel has spread his wings , I like to think he is watching over you and your clan as he is frolicking in the fields of doggie heaven !
ReplyDeleteAwwhhh Jake....thinking of you Kim.
ReplyDeleteWe are so sorry. Mom is crying for Jake and for you and for Morgan and Samba too.
ReplyDeleteMorgan,Tsar and the Porties
Thank you for being there for Jake.
ReplyDeleteGod Bless you Kim, what a heart you have. Thanks to you Mr.Jake left the world knowing he was loved.
ReplyDeleteHugs,
It is true, there are not many who would give the love and attention you did for Jake. Jake was in loving arms for his last days and those days were of care and kindness that eased his way to the rainbow bridge. His crossing over has freed him of all that he could not endure this last time. Peace and carefree running in that endless meadow over that bridge Jake.
ReplyDeleteWe know you gave him the best 24 days of his life! Rest in peace, Jake!
ReplyDeleteAROOOOOF!
Boondocks & The Love Shack Pack
He left loved, though, didn't he? He knew he had a family, and people that cared for him and wanted the best for him. Jake was loved, and we thank you for giving that to him.
ReplyDeleteWe are sending you hugs.
Sam
Jake had 24 days of love from one of the most compassionate and caring individuals that we know.
ReplyDeleteThank you Kim for being there again.
We know the breaking heart, we do it all out of love.
Gods Speed Jake, you are running free today with so many of ours that have gone before.
Sheila, Bob
Hamish, Rescue Sophie & Foster Tucker.
What a wonderful way to go! Jake was fortunate indeed to have had you Kim in his life.
ReplyDeleteOh dear. We've been reading and sending out good thoughts to you and your family and, although we are sorry that Jake is gone we know that he had the absolute best of care and love with you. xoxoxoxo
ReplyDeleteFew people would take such care with a dog they have known for years. And here once again with your king-sized heart you have provided such loving care to one whom you knew for only 24 days. I strongly suspect that Jake felt more love and care from you than he had received in years.
ReplyDeleteKim,
ReplyDeleteJake might have only been with you for 24 days but I bet it was the best 24 days of his finally life.
As I have mentioned before Kim you are a Angel and I'm so glad I found your blog sight.
It is a beautiful day here and warm.
I will like a candle for Jake tonight and think of him as He enters Rainbow Bridge.
Oh Kim -- I am sending you and the crew hugs, I am thankful that Jake got to spend his last days with you and the others. Those were good days for him
ReplyDeleteJean - MN
I'm positive Jake left knowing a deep love. Praying for comfort for you.
ReplyDeleteBlessings,
Goose
Dear Jake's Family,
ReplyDeleteDog Daze sent us here. We sadly did not know Jake but your beautiful and heart-wrenching tribute has left tear stains on my keyboard. Jake could not have asked for a more dedicated, loving human to spend his final days with. He was a beautiful dog, and we are sorry we did not know him before now. Our deepest sympathies to you and your family over the loss of your beautiful, lovely boy Jake. May he find comfort and peace over the Rainbow Bridge.
Suka ad K
I wouldn't think I would cry for a dog I "barely knew for 24 days" ... but I did. Those who can see the dogs or any other animal through their hearts, have never seen a non beautiful animal.
ReplyDeleteSo very sorry to hear of your loss. Even though Jake was only with you for 24 days, I know you built up a lot of good memories too that will always remain in your heart.
ReplyDeleteAmber DaWeenie's Mom
God blessed Jake by giving him you! You were probably just what he needed in order to let go. He obviously felt very loved. Blessings to you.
ReplyDeleteIn just 24 days Jake has found a place in your heart forever. I'm so sorry that he crossed the rainbow bridge so soon, but I'm glad he spent his last days with someone who loved and cared so much about him.
ReplyDeleteTake care of yourself. Riley and I send are thinking of you and sending you a big hug.
Love
Riley's mum.
*hugs* ♥
ReplyDeleteGod has definitely blessed you, Kim.
God bless you for giving Jake the best 24 days of his life.phyllis
ReplyDeleteRun Free, Jake. Hugs to you and thank you for giving Jake the best 24 days of his life. You are angel. Sniffs, The HoundDogs
ReplyDeleteI'm so sorry to hear Jake is gone. You are a hero, Kim - you gave Jake 24 days that were more filled with love and comfort and care than he would have had without you. Thanky ou, thank you for what you do.
ReplyDeleteWe are so sorry for your loss. You gave him 24 days of love and he has given you a heart full of love, forever!
ReplyDeleteWe are so sorry that Jake is gone. What a lovely tribute to him. We know you'll miss him.
ReplyDeleteXXXOOO Daisy, Kendra, Bella & Roxy
Dear Kim and Carl,
ReplyDeleteAgain your hearts are broken.
Again and again you share love with those older furries who need it.
Your gift of love to Jake, I know gave him a sense of peace and contentment.
You did everything you could and more just by loving Jake.
We are so sad along with you.
It hurts us to see you hurt, because we care so much about you.
May you feel peace in knowing you gave him love in those 24 days.
love
tweedles
I've followed your blog for months now, and don't know how you stay strong and continue to open your heart and home for these loving old souls. The world needs more people like you and your husband. The final days you spend with these goldens are a such a blessing. Your posts rarely fail to bring tears to my eyes. May this holiday season bring about many uplifting posts.
ReplyDeleteYou sent Jake towards The RB with a whola lotta love!
ReplyDeleteHugz&Khysses,
Khyra and Phyll
Sending our love you. <3
ReplyDeleteRun free, sweet Jake. Run free.
Much love,
~sh~
Thank you for loving, Jake and the rest of your Goldens.
ReplyDeleteBe kind to your broken heart. I don't know how you deal with the pain.
OH Kim,so sorry to hear the sad news,
ReplyDeleteLove and Thoughts are heading your way
Sue (in England)
xxxxx
Yes you did! ....and you did what was best for Jake. Godspeed Jake, and run free!
ReplyDeletexoxo
We came by from Dog Daze it does hurt when a furend dies.
ReplyDeleteBut I foster dogs for a Charity and I can not tell you how much I addmire the people that take an old dog on, even though they do not last long.
It is so good to know they have had a good home to thier end.
So thank you for your kind heart.
That is what my blog was about Kind Hearts.
Licks Bobby
Licks Bobby
((((((HUGS)))))) What you do for these sweet babies is wonderful!!!!
ReplyDeleteFarewell sweet Jake.
ReplyDeleteWe are so sorry to hear about Jake. Take comfort in knowing that you made his final days some of the best he ever had............
ReplyDeleteKim, I am so very sorry for your loss of the unbelievably beautiful Jake. I know you and I see with the same kind of eyes, and it is eyes that sees with the heart. I see the kind of beauty you see - in the unwanted and the discarded and the not culturally perceived beautiful. Well, to my mind, it just goes to show that the world at large is blind. What beauty this world would have missed had it not been for you once rescuing this resplendent soul and letting his beautiful essence have a chance at shining. What light that awaits you at the Rainbow Bridge - a beautiful golden light.
ReplyDeleteThinking of you,
xo Joan
It sounds as if Jake has made a huge impact on you and your life. Dogs are like that. My thoughts are with you and with Jake. Sounds like an incredible pup.
ReplyDeleteYou're a good woman Kim. Thank you for giving Jake such good and caring 24 days - and for sharing it with us.
ReplyDeleteRIP Jake, and thank you Kim for making his last few weeks comfortable.
ReplyDeleteGill in Canada
Kim, I'm so sorry I missed the posts about Jake's sudden illness. I can't believe this happened as I was about to fall in love with him like I had with Hamlet and Sam that belonged to the old lady. I am so sorry you had to go through this, but your heart is big and strong and you will be OK. I will think of you and say a prayer for Jake.
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry, Kim. Jake was lucky to be with you for a short time and to experience the love in your pack. I'm sure that your heart is aching. When you give your heart to so many needy dogs, it seems that you experience more than your fair share of losses. Yet, you keep giving and giving and giving. You're an amazing family.
ReplyDeleteMy heart is aching for you. And for Jake, because he didn't get longer with you. Rest in peace, Jake.
Kim,
ReplyDeleteThank you for giving Jake a chance and the best last 24 days he could ask for. You have so much good Karma saved up!
Run free sweet Jake!
I am sorry to hear about Jake, but i know he is in dog heaven.
ReplyDeleteBig kisses and i will light a little candle for him tonight.
Leontien
Jake was the lucky one, to have had you in his life for the short 24 days. I have a few fur babies at Rainbow Bridge that I cannot wait to someday see!
ReplyDelete